Reddit mentions of Vengeance Performance Memory Kit

http://www.crucial.com/usa/en/compatible-memory-for/Apple/macbook-pro-%2813-inch%2C-late-2011%29

I have this in my early-2011 15" MacBook Pro: http://www.amazon.com/Corsair-Vengeance-Laptop-Memory-CMSX16GX3M2A1600C10/dp/B0076W9Q5A/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1407785396&sr=8-3&keywords=corsair+vengeance+1600mhz+ddr3

> Currently this has only 4GB RAM, was thinking about upgrading this as well but thought the SSD may give it more of a kick.

First off, I think you should do both SSD and RAM upgrade. It is true that the SSD will be the bigger speed bump of the two, but if the machine has too few RAM, it will start caching to the SSD in its quest for more memory, and this will slow down the Mac mini. More physical RAM removes this bottleneck. You can easily do both RAM and SSD upgrades for well below $200.

As for the RAM:

The Mac mini 2012 supports up to 16 GB RAM (2 x 8 GB RAM modules). It has two RAM slots, meaning two RAM modules in total will fit in.

The Mac mini 2012 needs RAM that matches the following specification:

PC3-12800 1600Mhz DDR3, 204-pin

Here are some examples of RAM modules which should work:

• https://www.amazon.com/Samsung-memory-upgrade-1600MHz-Macbook/dp/B00BP6S33E/
  
• https://www.amazon.com/CORSAIR-Vengeance-204-Pin-SO-DIMM-CMSX16GX3M2A1600C10/dp/B0076W9Q5A/
  
• https://www.amazon.com/Crucial-PC3-12800-SODIMM-204-Pin-Memory/dp/B008LTBJFW/
  
  8 GB is still workable, but I definitely recommend a 16 GB RAM upgrade, at least if you intend to use the machine for the next few years. 16 GB RAM will circumvent memory bottlenecks.
  
  As for the SSD:
  
  The Mac mini supports every SSD that meets the following criteria:
  
  
• 2.5" form factor
  
• SATA3-compatible
  
  Here are some examples of SSDs that should work:
  
  
• https://www.amazon.com/Samsung-500GB-Internal-MZ-76E500B-AM/dp/B0781Z7Y3S
  
• https://www.amazon.com/SanDisk-500GB-Ultra-NAND-SATA/dp/B072R78B6Q
  
• https://www.amazon.com/Blue-NAND-500GB-SSD-WDS500G2B0A/dp/B073SBZ8YH
  
  I encourage you to use the SSD as the internal drive. It's the most bullet-proof option, and circumvents problems commonly associated with booting from an external drive. All can go well, but the SSD as internal boot drive is your safest bet by far. I'd recommend that you use the HDD which is currently inside of your Mac mini as an external drive, actually.
  
  > Will I need to install macOS, and if so will I need the install disc or is it possible to make a boot disc from the current setup?
  
  You need to install macOS on the SSD if you want to make it your boot drive, no matter if externally or internally. This can be achieved either by creating a macOS 10.14 USB installer:
  
  
• https://www.macworld.com/article/3284378/how-to-create-a-bootable-macos-mojave-installer-drive.html
  
  (You can also buy such a macOS 10.14 USB installer from eBay.)
  
  The other method is to use Internet Recovery:
  
  
• https://wccftech.com/clean-install-macos-mojave-ota/

Throw in a Samsung EVO SSD and 16gig of RAM and you will have a brand new computer. My 2011 is still going strong and so is my wifes 2012.

EDIT: SSD
RAM

1. I don't remember the exact specifics, but I found 16GB Corsair Vengeance RAM on Amazon for cheaper than the Crucial set. I'll update with a link if I find it again (found it). It had black and gold packaging and worked beautifully. For the SSD, I'd recommend mSATA to start. Yes, you're limited to SATA2 throughput, but you won't notice in everyday use and it leaves you the option to put a larger drive in the 2.5" slot later.
   
   
2. No idea, my X230 came with IPS (also eBay) because I didn't want to gamble and the cost difference was about the same as the cost of the mod.
   
   
3. If you need one, you need one, even if it's pricey. I'd see what you can find for cheap. Since the X230 comes with a Thinklight, you don't need a backlit keyboard, but I'd get one anyway if the price is close (helps with resale value).
   
   Edit: added link for RAM

on 8gb and 2x8gb also you can check how easy it is to replace here

Only 8? So this wouldn't work? http://www.amazon.com/Corsair-Vengeance-Laptop-1600MHz-CMSX16GX3M2A1600C10/dp/B0076W9Q5A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1343160973&sr=8-1&keywords=ddr2+ram+16+gb

CORSAIR Vengeance 16GB (2x8GB) 204-Pin DDR3 SO-DIMM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Laptop Memory Model CMSX16GX3M2A1600C10 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0076W9Q5A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_BB5LDbVYN4FDQ

I saw some even around 40-50 (although kinda no name with good reviews albeit fewer reviews overall) but got a great deal on these for $60.

My criteria are good (and numerous) reviews, and the best specs for the best price.

I went with this set, but I've used crucial in the past. As long as you go to a known brand your good. The best deal probably depends on the ram you need.

Hi there , Im thinking of upgrading from the stock i5 to either your processor or the i7 2760qm/ 2670qm ( as its cheaper) The bios version on my laptop is 1.36 would i need to update to the latest bios (1.52) before this upgrade would work. Also is the ram you bought the https://www.amazon.com/CORSAIR-Vengeance-204-Pin-SO-DIMM-CMSX16GX3M2A1600C10/dp/B0076W9Q5A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1538782910&sr=8-1&keywords=corsair+1600mhz+sodimm as I am also thinking of upgrading from the 4gb stick in my laptop. If so would i also need to update from 1.36 before this Ram upgrade. Thanks in advance.

For save more money you can buy used version at amazon

1tb samsung 860 evo ssd only 139.99 usd

https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B078DPCY3T/ref=sr_1_1_olp?ie=UTF8&qid=1539818635&sr=8-1&keywords=1tb+samsung+860+evo

CORSAIR Vengeance 16GB (2x8GB) 204-Pin DDR3 SO-DIMM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Laptop Memory Model CMSX16GX3M2A1600C10 price only 99.99 usd

https://www.amazon.com/CORSAIR-Vengeance-204-Pin-SO-DIMM-CMSX16GX3M2A1600C10/dp/B0076W9Q5A/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1539818786&sr=1-4&keywords=16gb+2x8+sodimm+ddr3

total only 239.98 USD...

Now you can have fast laptop with low budget upgrade

Good Luck Bro

I am looking at this currently:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0076W9Q5A/ref=ox_ya_os_product

Thanks again but now I'm debating on returning my purchase (I didn't open it) and buying [this] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0076W9Q5A?keywords=pc3-12800%20ddr3%201600%20mhz%20type%20ram&qid=1452141033&ref_=sr_1_3&refinements=p_89%3ACorsair&sr=8-3), since I have a giftcard to amazon but the thing is my MBP is stated to only support up to 8 gb, is there a way around it get up to 16 gb?

thanks again :)

1x Crucial 512 GB SSD for the system to run in the primary drive bay (I'll stick the 750gb in the 2nd drive slot for storage)

32GB of Corsair Vengeance Laptop Memory Kit 16 GB (2x8 GB) DDR3 1600MHz (it has 4 spots for ram, each at 8gb maximum.)

It has an empty 2nd drive bay and should be a beast. S6 and lightroom for batch editing.

I got it from newegg when it was still $899. I just called them and they are giving me a credit for the new price difference. Thanks newegg! :-)

I actually recently purchased the same MacBook Pro as you, except I got the 15". I used the same SSD(250 GB) and HDD caddy, that you linked, when upgrading, as well as this ram. They both worked great, however, some people suggest doing a clean install to an SSD when upgrading. I ended up upgrading everything and then booting into recovery mode by pressing Command + R while booting. I then just reinstalled OS X onto the SSD and erased the HDD to use as storage. It is a rather simple upgrade, just be careful to not strip the screws. Use a #00 philips screwdriver and a T6 Torx driver.

As for apps, there has been a few posts asking for some good ones. This is one that I have on hand. I also get some good app deals from here but there are other sites with deals like these.

Yeah, thanks, as i'm using a laptop, i won't be doing any upgrades soon, thats why i wanted to get some ram. You pretty much solved all my doubts, the thing i was worried about the most was compability issues, but you solved that too. Its fairly simple to change it and i won't be voiding the warranty as i already had to change the fan myself, so i won't have any problems.

The only remaining thing is to think which one will i buy, as i don't really know what the specs mean. After some research i preselected this ones, and according to your list they have some of the lowest price per gb. Which one would be the best. They pretty much seem the same to me, only that the hyperx ones have a wider range.

http://www.amazon.es/dp/B00KQCOV5C/?tag=pcp02-21

http://www.amazon.es/dp/B0076W9Q5A/?tag=pcp02-21

^^^The ^^^links ^^^are ^^^on ^^^spanish, ^^^sorry.

Would these be the equivalent?

http://www.amazon.ca/Corsair-Vengeance-Laptop-Memory-CMSX16GX3M2A1600C10/dp/B0076W9Q5A/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1450372634&sr=8-2&keywords=laptop+ram

Amazon, NewEgg also now carry the 1515+ at comparable prices. Yes there are specific RAM modules that work in it compared to others. Two I know of are this Crucial and this Corsair I have this Forum Thread bookmarked to show you the Upgrade process. This is the same thread I found the RAM modules that are compatible. Hope this Helps.

for ram you could install 2 of these kits. any ddr3 sodimm memory should work

https://www.amazon.com/CORSAIR-Vengeance-204-Pin-SO-DIMM-CMSX16GX3M2A1600C10/dp/B0076W9Q5A/ref=sr_1_4?crid=3BEI64HVW9W5I&keywords=32gb+ddr3+so-dimm&qid=1557810472&s=gateway&sprefix=32gb+ddr3+%2Caps%2C297&sr=8-4

upgrading the screen on the w540 is easier than the t430, the bezel just pulls straight off. Just dont do what I did and try to put 4k screen in cos I did that and fried my motherboard!

the fastest cpu that will work in that laptop is the i7 4940MX

I'm coming from a custom-built PC background and looking to make the new iMac with Retina 5K Display (Retina iMac) my first Apple computer. From my research on configuring 32GB memory to order vs upgrading myself, I could not find any evidence that the modules Apple uses are any better than available from third-parties.

• Apple has yet to post a support article with the Retina iMac's user-upgradable memory requirements. Below is last year's spec. Based on the Retina iMac being the same body as the Late 2013 27" iMac and the high-level RAM specification on the Tech Spec product page is the same for both models (DDR3 1600Mhz SO-DIMM, up to 32GB) people have assumed that the exact memory specification for the Retina iMac is unchanged since last year. http://support.apple.com/kb/HT5908
  
  
• From what I've read, you should only upgrade the memory in your MAC if the manual mentions it, so it will not void your warranty. Here's the iMac manual dated 2014, claiming memory is the only user-upgradable component on the Retina iMac. "Your iMac doesn’t have any user-serviceable parts, except for memory, which is user-replaceable in 27-inch models only." https://a248.e.akamai.net/7/248/51/20120908/manuals.info.apple.com/MANUALS/1000/MA1690/en_US/imac_late2014_ipig.pdf
  
  
• Recent model iMacs, MacBook Pros and Mac Minis all use the same DDR3 1600Mhz laptop-size memory, with only the max capacity varying.
  
  
• Since Apple started using Intel chips, the memory spec has become generic PC memory. In at least the last 3 model years, for example, no Mac uses error correction ECC memory except for the professionally-targeted Mac Pro. In consumer Macs, there is nothing about the memory Apple uses that's Mac-specific. The only difference is a third party manufacture like Crucial or OWC may have done additional testing to verify their memory works on a Mac. The extent of testing was probably to install the max amount of memory, see that the Mac boots up properly, no kernel-panics, and the correct amount memory and frequency is displayed in About this Mac.
  
  
• Below is a table of 8GB modules in 1, 2 or 4 module kits (8GB, 16GB, or 32GB) that I have researched that meet the Late 2013 27" memory specification AND with positive reviews (between Amazon, Newegg, Tigerdirect, and BHPhoto) AND are either verified as working on a Mac by the manufacturer OR where multiple reviewers have mentioned success with late model Macs:
  
  
  Product | Verification | Product Page | Buy
  ---|---|----|----
  OWC CL11 | By manufacture | OWC | OWC 4x8GB kit
  Crucial CL11 | By manufacture | Crucial | Amazon 2x8GB kit or [Newegg 2x8GB kit] (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820148609)
  Kingston CL11 | By manufacture | Kingston | [Amazon 1x8GB kit] (http://www.amazon.com/Kingston-1600MHz-PC3-12800-KTA-MB1600-8G/dp/B0089MTON0/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1413945462&sr=1-4&keywords=KTA-MB1600LK2%2F16G) or Amazon 2x8GB kit
  Kingston HyperX CL11 | By manufacture | Kingston | Amazon 2x8GB kit
  Corsair CL9 | By customers | [Corsair] (http://www.corsair.com/en-us/vengeance-16gb-high-performance-laptop-memory-upgrade-kit-cmsx16gx3m2b1600c9) | [Amazon 2x8GB kit] (http://www.amazon.com/Corsair-Vengeance-Performance-1600MHz-CMSX16GX3M2B1600C9/dp/B00EXPNG5Y)
  Corsair CL10 | By customers | [Corsair] (http://www.corsair.com/en-us/vengeance-16gb-high-performance-laptop-memory-upgrade-kit-cmsx16gx3m2a1600c10) | [Amazon 2x8GB kit] (http://www.amazon.com/Corsair-Vengeance-Laptop-Memory-CMSX16GX3M2A1600C10/dp/B0076W9Q5A)
  
  
• With the exception of the Corsair memory above, which are both verified to work only by customer reviews, the rest of the list have a CAS Latency (CL) value of 11. The lower the CL the better. This is where I am currently stuck in my research. Apple does not publish the latency numbers of their memory, nor have review sites like iFixIt included this information in their teardowns/reviews. Since the above products are similarly priced, except OWC which is way more, I am torn whether or not to take a chance on the higher performing Crucial CL9 or go the safe route with a manufacture verified product. And if I start considered non-manufacture verified products that still meet the spec, that would open up to many more possibilities I don't have time to list here.
  
  Thoughts on CL or which one of the above seems best?
  

I have a PC that is currently running 8GB of this RAM. I want to buy some more and did some searching on Amazon and found 16GB of this for $20 more. So I could either buy a second set of the first and have 16GB total or the second and have 24GB total. However I noticed the timings were different. Is this an issue?

Also, this is the ram and SSD I was looking at getting
http://www.amazon.com/Corsair-Vengeance-Laptop-Memory-CMSX16GX3M2A1600C10/dp/B0076W9Q5A

http://www.amazon.com/Crucial-256GB-2-5-Inch-9-5mm-CT256M4SSD2/dp/B004W2JL2A

You are not bugging me, you can find a configuration with a SSD on the same page here it is if you want to add more ram as well then here is a 16GB ram set

Getting only 1 8gb stick means you'll have a lot less bandwidth compared to a 2x4gb setup. You'll benefit more from more bandwidth. That is why lots of computers have either 2 sticks of ram or an even number of ram installed.

Idk how laptop ram prices work, but I would think that 16gb of ram (2x8gb) is similar in price since ram prices are so low.

Edit 1: Ah, found one. https://www.amazon.com/CORSAIR-Vengeance-204-Pin-SO-DIMM-CMSX16GX3M2A1600C10/dp/B0076W9Q5A

Edit 2: Wait, Not that one... This one: https://www.amazon.com/Corsair-Memory-2400MHz-SODIMM-CMSX16GX4M2A2400C16/dp/B019MRBKYG

The maximum is 16GB. Not sure about 2133 MHz though. I have 2x8GB Corsair Vengeance (1600 MHz) installed, works great - https://www.amazon.com/Corsair-Vengeance-2x8GB-Laptop-Memory/dp/B0076W9Q5A

Not sure if 2133 or 2600 MHz would make much difference.

Absolutely. I have the same computer and put a 480gb SSD and upgraded from 8gb to 16gb of RAM. Used these cards. Definitely worth it. Feels like a new computer.

www.amazon.com/Corsair-Vengeance-Laptop-Memory-CMSX16GX3M2A1600C10/dp/B0076W9Q5A/

thats the ones i bought, but its gone up about 20 bucks.

> http://www.amazon.com/Corsair-Vengeance-Laptop-Memory-CMSX16GX3M2A1600C10/dp/B0076W9Q5A/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1407785396&sr=8-3&keywords=corsair+vengeance+1600mhz+ddr3


Sweet, thanks for the input.